"Chester was my friend, as he to so many, and witnessing his life taught me important things, especially about working relentlessly, perusing dreams, and being kind and caring while doing it," Leto said. "When I think about him, Chester, I see his face, which was always smiling. I think about his heart, which he wore on his sleeve."

Sending his thoughts to Bennington's wife and "six incredible children," Leto went on to share consideration for the friends and family he left behind — and honor the gift Bennington shared while he was among the living. "I think about his family, I think about his band, who were really his brothers," he added. "And I remember his voice, at once ferocious and delicate. That voice will live forever."

Exhorting the crowd to take to its feet in tribute, Leto urged viewers to seek support if they were experiencing suicidal thoughts. "If there is anyone out there who is watching this tonight who feels like there is no hope, hear me now: You are not alone," he insisted. "There is always a way forward. Reach out, share your thoughts, do not give up." To close out the segment, which you can watch above, Leto introduced a clip of Linkin Park performing at the 2010 VMAs.

Joined by Travis Scott, Thirty Seconds to Mars used thermal imaging effects to perform their new single "Walk on Water" at the ceremony. Watch a clip from that portion of the program below.